Maryland Governor Pardons 175,000 with Low-Level Marijuana Convictions

SOURCE www.npr.org
Maryland Governor Wes Moore pardons 175,000 people with low-level marijuana convictions, aiming to remove barriers to employment, housing, and education. Pardons do not erase convictions but provide psychological benefits and can prevent deportation for immigrants. There is ongoing debate about the effectiveness of pardons in helping individuals with criminal records.

Key Points

  • Pardoning 175,000 people with low-level marijuana convictions is one of the most expansive absolutions by a state for this type of crime
  • Pardons provide psychological benefits and can prevent deportation for immigrants
  • Debate exists on whether pardons are sufficient in removing barriers for individuals with criminal records

Pros

  • Removes barriers to employment, housing, and education
  • Provides peace of mind and eases stigma for those pardoned
  • Can prevent deportation for immigrants

Cons

  • Pardons do not erase convictions from records
  • Effectiveness in helping individuals with criminal records is debated
  • Process of expungement can be lengthy and confusing